Fiat Unveils Racy 500 Design Concepts: 2013 Detroit Auto Show

Fiat isn’t making a big deal of this week’s 2013 Detroit Auto Show but the Italian brand, now in control of Chrysler, hasn’t forgotten the show altogether.

Fiat has unveiled two new design concepts in Detroit based on its sporty 500 Abarth and 500 Turbo models.

The automaker says it’s just showcasing the design and customizing potential of the 500 minicar, but we wouldn’t be surprised if many of the featured exterior and interior pieces end up being produced.

The two design concepts are the 500 Abarth Tenebra, which is finished in a unique gray paint called Matte Grigio, and the 500 Turbo Cattiva, which dons a bright orange paint finish and features a contrasting black roof.

Building on the credible 500 Abarth platform, the 500 Abarth Tenebra is designed for driving purists who also like a little customization. Some of the details include black chrome trim pieces around the body, custom 16-inch aluminum wheels, and Abarth detailing complete with a roof-sized scorpion logo up top.

A similar theme continues inside, with black leather trim covering the seats, piping and dash highlights matching the gray exterior color, and an Abarth sports steering wheel and instrument cluster completing the look.

The 500 Turbo Cattiva makes up for its slightly lower power output with a racy copper exterior color called Rame, which is then offset with black elements. To enhance its performance, the vehicle comes with lowered suspension, 16-inch aluminum wheels and a sports exhaust.

Inside, the theme is all black, with black leather covering the seats and a unique matte black finish used on the instrument panel. For additional detail, a sports steering wheel dressed in black leather is added and is joined by a Beats Audio sound system.